HAYDEN Tee entered musical theatre to spend more time with a crush.

He's long since moved on from the girl who inspired him and has found more success than he expected.

"I joined the theatre to spend more time with her," he said.

"That's what got me into the theatre, but it's not what made me stay."

Tee performed in Tyalgum in 2007, and he's back next month.

Before getting stuck in to rehearsals for Les Miserables in Melbourne, he'll be treating Tyalgum to his only solo shows in Australia.

He said his prior visit to Tyalgum was one of his "fondest memories".

"It was the most magical weekend," he said.

"The audience was so receptive and warm."

Tee said he was attracted to Tyalgum's "warm family atmosphere", which reminded him of his hometown in regional New Zealand.

On his musical theatre success, Tee said it was not something he predicted at the age of 11.

"To be completely honest, I didn't even know people got paid to be in the theatre," he said.

Tee said the non-judgemental nature of the theatre had made it feel like home.

While his career was up and down, Tee said every year had been better than the last in some way.

"At one point in New York, I couldn't find work for a whole year," he said.

"Then I landed the most amazing opportunity.

"I couldn't think of anything worse than not challenging myself."

Details

What: Hayden Tee, musical theatre performer

Where: Tyalgum Hall

When: Friday, May 2 and Saturday, May 3

Cost: $55 per person, $74 dinner and show package

Book: heartsaflame productions.com